Mount Prospect building still could collapse By Melissa Silverberg and Sara Hooker
A Mount Prospect electronics store remained in danger of collapse Wednesday morning after part of the roof caved in Tuesday afternoon. Michael Luber said he has owned for building for about 40 years. “It's lucky no one was hurt,” he said of Tuesday's partial roof collapse. “If it falls now, it will create a mess, but no one will be hurt and that's the important part.”

'Breaking Bad' star speaks out against bullying By Deborah Donovan
R.J. Mitte, one of the stars of the hit AMC show "Breaking Bad," spoke Tuesday at Harper College. Mitte, who played Walter "Flynn" White Jr. during the show's acclaimed five-season run that ended Sept. 29, talked about overcoming adversity in his own life and took questions from the audience. “When you have a disability you become a target,” Mitte said.

2 win physics Nobel for Higgs boson theory Associated PressIt took nearly 50 years, but Francois Englert of Belgium and Peter Higgs of Britain won the 2013 Nobel Prize in physics Tuesday for figuring out how the universe's most basic building blocks acquire mass and form the world we know today.

$100M Navy charity fraud trial starts in Ohio Associated PressA former fugitive accused of operating a $100 million cross-country scam collecting donations for Navy veterans shifted money among various accounts and stole millions through ATM cash withdrawals and checks made out to himself, prosecutors said.

State prepares for immigrant driver's licenses Associated PressIllinois' secretary of state's office is preparing to launch a massive effort that gives as many as 250,000 immigrants who are in the country illegally permission to drive. In January, Gov. Pat Quinn signed the state's license law that supporters touted as a public safety issue as well as an important step for immigrant rights. Ten months later, the state is in the final stages of the process and...

Rauner the latest candidate to pick suburban running mate By Mike Riopell
Political Editor
Wheaton City Council member Evelyn Pacino Sanguinetti will be Republican governor hopeful Bruce Rauner's running mate, he announced this morning. “I'm proof that with hard work, a good education and an opportunity anyone from anywhere can make it,” Sanguinetti said in a statement.

Not far from Lake Michigan, city yearns for water Associated PressLake Michigan is just 15 miles from this city of 70,000 in the Milwaukee suburbs. But these days it seems like a gigantic, shimmering mirage, tantalizingly out of reach. The aquifer that has provided most of Waukesha's drinking water for the last century has dropped so far that what's left has unhealthy levels of radium and salt.

Government shutdown closes Lincoln's Springfield home Associated PressSpringfield officials say they're worried the federal government's partial shutdown may cut into tourism. That's because Abraham Lincoln's home — one of the city's top tourists attractions — is closed since it's operated by the National Parks Service. The site drew more than 295,000 visitors last year.

Roselle chimney sweeps renew vows atop Willis Tower By Burt ConstableMarried on the skydeck of the new Sears Tower in 1978, Roselle chimney sweeps David and Dee Stoll renewed their wedding vows Tuesday from the Ledge of the Willis Tower. “We did clean chimneys for 14 years. I want you to know this isn't fake,” David Stoll says as he explains his well-worn black top hat and tux with tails that he wore on the job and for this ceremony.

Police plan tight security for Chicago Marathon Associated PressSecurity at this year's Chicago Marathon will be tighter than ever after April's bombing at the Boston Marathon.Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy says there will be more bomb-sniffing dogs along the 26.2-mile route. He says there will be undercover officers and the city will use its extensive surveillance camera system to watch virtually every foot of the course.

Fox Lake police searching for Ingleside man
Daily Herald reportFox Lake police continue to search for an Ingleside man after his father reported him missing Monday.Eric D. Walleck, 40, of the 500 block of Lincoln Ave., Ingleside, was last heard from Sunday night.He’s described as 5-feet, 8-inches tall with brown hair and brown eyes, and tattoos on both shoulders and his right forearm.

Wauconda board delays vote on new administratorBy Russell LissauWauconda residents will have to wait another week to learn the identity of their next village administrator. The village board was set to approve a contract for the position during a special meeting Tuesday night, but officials are giving the candidate more time to sign the deal and notify his current employer, Mayor Frank Bart told the Daily Herald.

Lauzen, Russell in budget impasse as deadline approachesBy James Fuller
Kane County Board members approved a full preliminary budget Tuesday for public review but with one major asterisk. Coroner Rob Russell decried a "compromise" budget for his office as unworkable while noting he was not involved in the compromise plan.

Reforms bolster DuPage water agency’s financial outlookBy Robert SanchezNearly four years after admitting the DuPage Water Commission squandered tens of millions of dollars in reserve cash, officials say they’ve made dramatic changes to correct the problems and keep the agency financially viable. In fact, the entity responsible for supplying 25 municipalities with Lake Michigan water is on pace to be debt-free before a quarter-cent sales tax that supports its...

Victim ‘never had a chance,’ racing trial prosecutor says
By Barbara VitelloMigdalia Bloch of Hoffman Estates “never had a chance” when a speeding silver Jaguar struck her car and exploded in flames, prosecutors said as the trial began for a man accused in a 2011 street race that killed Bloch and the Jaguar’s driver. “At the time of impact, my client was not anywhere near" the Jaguar's driver, the defense said.

Jeep crashes into Lake Villa dry cleaners, injuring oneBy Russell LissauThe owner of a Lake Villa dry-cleaning store was injured Tuesday when a Jeep plowed into the business, authorities said. The Jeep drove over a curb and crashed through the storefront at Fashion Cleaner, 850 Tower Drive, about 12:45 p.m.

Trial date set for Arlington Heights murder caseBy Barbara VitelloA Cook County judge set February , 2014 as the trial date for Matthew Nellessen, charged with first-degree murder in the 2011 death of his father George Nellessen in the family's Arlington Heights home. Also charged in George Nellessen's death are Marlon L. Green, Armon Braden and Azari Braden.

Dist. 207 superintendent gets five-year contract extension
By Christopher PlacekMaine Township High School District 207 Superintendent Ken Wallace has been at the helm of the district for more than four years, but perhaps it’s been the past 12 months that have been the most volatile. Wallace’s management of the district since a hazing scandal broke last fall — and the desire to ensure continuity in managing the fallout down the line — may have been one of the reasons school...

Pace working through Ventra issues
By Marni PykePace will answer your pressing questions about the new fare system with the CTA dubbed Ventra at suburban locations next week. Meanwhile, some customers were frustrated trying to interact with the system online Monday.

Official says ‘something has to give’
By Marni PykeAlthough O'Hare's air traffic controllers are still at their jobs, the lack of support staff is taking a toll. Meanwhile, plans to open the airport's newest runway Oct. 17 are still set.

Elgin cops say homeless man slashed another homeless man
By Harry HitzemanA 47-year-old homeless man slashed another homeless man with a steak knife Saturday afternoon in Elgin, police said. Timothy L. Davis has been charged with felony aggravated battery with a deadly weapon in connection with the incident, which caused the victim to need 10 stitches on his left index finger after blocking a stab attempt toward his chest.

Grant teacher resigns; police investigating alleged student contactBy Lee FilasA Grant High School teacher has resigned amid allegations the teacher had inappropriate contact with a student. Superintendent Christie Sefcik, of Grant High School District 124 in Fox Lake, said in a letter sent home to parents that administrators received information alleging the inappropriate contact on Oct. 6. Police were immediately contacted and the unidentified teacher has resigned, Sefcik...

Dist. 211 Foundation launches online auction fundraiser
Daily Herald staff reportThe Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211 Foundation has launched an online auction to raise money for educator innovation grants that will directly benefit students. There are more than 220 items available for auction, including dining destinations, golf outings, spa experiences, family fun activities and theme baskets. The auction will run from Thursday, Oct. 10, until Sunday, Oct. 20,...

Miller Road bridge opening delayed: Daily Herald reportThe opening of the Miller Road bridge will be delayed from Oct. 19 to Oct. 26 due to flooding in the work area and unforeseen circumstances related to ground conditions.

Lauzen appointment with political ties held for further review
By James FullerKane County Board Chairman Chris Lauzen's appointment of Robert Sauceda as the new head of the animal control agency was put on hold Tuesday as board members expressed concerns about the lack of a full selection process. Sauceda was hired to be the billing collector for the agency in January after Lauzen failed to win enough support to appoint him head of animal control back in December. Lauzen...

Just how many Indians think ‘Redskins’ is a slur?
Associated PressThe name of a certain pro football team in Washington, D.C., has inspired protests, hearings, editorials, lawsuits, letters from Congress, even a presidential nudge. Yet behind the headlines, it’s unclear how many Native Americans think “Redskins” is a racial slur.

Suburban teachers among finalists for top state award
By Madhu KrishnamurthyThree teachers from Lake and DuPage counties are among 11 Teacher of the Year finalists vying for the state’s top educator award for 2014. Finalists include, Mark Buesing, a science and physics teacher at Libertyville High School, William Fritz, a communication arts teacher at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, and Amy Walsh, fourth grade teacher at Tioga School in Bensenville.

DuPage forest preserve site promotes interactivity
By Justin KmitchEvery day forest preserve officials say someone is enjoying a natural moment in a local preserve, be it a rare bird sighting or an awesome sunset, and wishing they could share it with other enthusiasts.Now they can, thanks to a little known website the DuPage County Forest Preserve District intends to roll out in the coming weeks.

Wheeling will replace often ruptured Dundee Road water main
By Deborah DonovanWheeling officials agreed this week to spend almost $400,000 to replace 1,700 feet of water main pipe on the north side of Dundee Road from Northgate Parkway to approximately 450 feet west of the Buffalo Creek bridge. The old cast iron pipe being replaced has broken seven times in the last three winters, requiring closures of the westbound lane of Dundee Road.

Hoffman Estates, Streamwood partner for sewer repairs
By Jessica CilellaStreamwood and Hoffman Estates have agreed to work together to repair a sanitary sewer pipe along Route 59 that serves both villages. The total cost of the project — which includes the construction of more than 1,000 feet of sewer and four manholes — is almost $282,000. Streamwood will be responsible for nearly $157,000 in work, while Hoffman Estates will be responsible for about $125,000.

Elgin woman accused of allowing child sexual abuse
By Harry HitzemanAn Elgin woman has been charged with permitting the sexual abuse of a child, a felony that could land her in prison for 15 years. Amanda Alder, 32, is accused of allowing the child to be abused between Jan. 1 and Aug. 26, court records show. Alder was released on her own recognizance after a warrant arrest Friday night.

First District 214 career night Wednesday
Submitted by District 214Northwest Suburban High School District 214 will host its 10th annual Career Nights at three high schools in October and November. Each night will focus on different career clusters highlighting various professions in each category. The first Career Night, “Careers in Arts & Communication/Human Services,” will be held at Elk Grove High School on Wednesday, Oct. 9.

Tri-Cities police reports
A Samsung Galaxy tablet and car amplifier were stolen between 10 p.m. Friday and 1 a.m. Sunday from a residence on the 45W100 block of I.C. Trail near Maple Park, according to a sheriff’s report.

Inverness mayor continues push for fire district deal
By Eric PetersonInverness Village President Jack Tatooles continues to urge Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District trustees to pursue an agreement allowing the Palatine Rural Fire Protection District to cover the west side of his village. But both fire districts remain skeptical they can overcome financial differences to reach a deal.

Round Lake still considering family’s pet chicken request
By Bob SusnjaraRound Lake village board members continue to ponder the idea of a family having pet chickens in a residential area. Anastassia Strine has been pushing for her family to have the pet chickens in Valley Lakes subdivision where she resides with her husband and four young children.

Sullivan to seek re-election:
Daily Herald reportState Rep. Ed Sullivan has announced he’ll run for re-election in 2014. Sullivan, a Mundelein Republican, has represented the 51st District since 2003.

Breast cancer fundraiser:
Daily Herald reportMundelein High School’s 6 p.m. volleyball game against Libertyville on Wednesday, Oct. 9, is a fundraiser for the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation, one of the nation’s leading breast cancer research and education charities, based in Chicago.

Used book sale:
Daily Herald reportFriends of the Fremont Library will host a used book sale from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct 12 and from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 at the library, 1170 N. Midlothian Road, Mundelein.

Gay marriage foes again push to have case dismissed
Associated PressLawyers fighting a lawsuit by 25 same-sex couples seeking the right to marry in Illinois are making a new push to have the case dismissed. On Tuesday, they asked the Cook County judge handling the case to refer their challenge to an appeals court. They hope that will undo the judge’s denial last month of their motion to toss the case.

Agency says tougher gun laws would crowd prisons
Associated PressLegislation cracking down on Illinois gun crime could add to the state’s prison overcrowding and cost hundreds of millions of dollars, the Illinois Department of Corrections said. A proposal to increase minimum sentences for certain crimes — backed by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and sponsored by Democratic state Rep. Mike Zalewski — could add about $700 million in operating expenses to the prison...

Indiana dog that crashed half-marathon gets medal
Associated PressAn Indiana dog that became an Internet sensation after crashing a half marathon has won a medal — and an appointment with a veterinarian to nip his wandering ways in the bud. The chocolate Labrador retriever named Boogie ran most of the 13.1 miles in Saturday’s Evansville event and then was taken to Animal Control.

Hong Kong Disneyland plans Iron Man attraction
Associated PressHong Kong Disneyland is adding an Iron Man-themed area in the hopes that the Marvel superhero’s success at the Chinese box office will help draw more visitors to the underachieving resort. In announcement Tuesday, the park said the Iron Man Experience, set to open by late 2016, will include a thrill ride that will let visitors “take flight with Iron Man on an epic adventure” involving a “battle...

Antioch traffic stop leads to heroin bust By Lee Filas
An Antioch man was charged with unlawful delivery of a controlled substance after a traffic stop, authorities said. Leon A. Henry, 21, of the 200 block of Anita Avenue, also faces a charge of unlawful possession of a controlled substance following his arrest at 5:44 p.m. Sunday at Depot Street and Burnette Drive, police Chief Craig Somerville said.

Palatine Park Dist. holds pet food drive
Submitted by the Palatine Park DistrictThe Palatine Park District Service Committee is collecting food and toys for needy cats and dogs in the Palatine area. Feed Our Pets is being held Oct. 14-26 and everything collected will be donated to Young at Heart Pet Rescue and Nina’s Pet Food Pantry, both in Palatine.

Naperville District 203 clears up 'cheating' definition By Marie Wilson
Terms like “cheating” and “self-plagiarism” now have clearer definitions in the student code at Naperville North and Naperville Central high schools, but the code's new academic integrity statement introduced this year doesn't change the adage “honesty is the best policy.” “The old code was a few sentences and basically said 'if you cheat you get a...

Attorney: Round Lake Beach slaying confession was coerced By Lee Filas
A defense attorney for an admitted gang member facing murder charges in the shooting of a Zion teen outside a Round Lake Beach convenience store claims his client was coerced into confessing to the killing. James Schwarzbach said police told Jose Garcia, 19, of the 600 block of Deepwoods Drive in Mundelein, that unless he “manned up” and confessed to shooting Gabriel Gonzalez, 18, on...

Naperville sculpture dedication marks Navy’s anniversary
By Marie WilsonNaperville’s sculpture of a World War I soldier raising a triumphant fist as he stands in a field now has someone to return the gesture. The “Spirit of the American Doughboy,” restored in 2003, officially will be joined this weekend by a 1920s-era sailor called “Spirit of the American Navy,” that stands tipping his hat back across Burlington Square Park near the downtown Metra station.

Resident urges Buffalo Grove to hold second Weiland Road hearing By Steve Zalusky
A Buffalo Grove resident urged village leaders Monday to hold a second public hearing on plans for a new connector road included in a $100 million project to relieve congestion along Weiland and Lake-Cook roads. “We expected a fair and transparent presentation of the alternatives. This was not at all what we found,” Foss told Buffalo Grove trustees at their village board meeting...

Schaumburg police lieutenant graduates FBI Academy
Daily Herald reportSchaumburg police Lt. Kurt Metzger was among 208 law enforcement officers who recently graduated from the FBI National Academy Program at Quantico, Va. Internationally known for its academic excellence, the program offers 10 weeks of advanced investigative, management and fitness training for selected officers with proven records as professionals within their agencies.

Arlington Heights accepting Heart of Gold nominations
Submitted by the Village of Arlington HeightsArlington Heights is now accepting nominations for its annual Hearts of Gold award program. The program, sponsored by the village’s Special Events Commission, recognizes people who live or work in the village for contributions that have positively affected the lives of others.

Arlington Heights fire open house Saturday
Submitted by the Village of Arlington HeightsResidents and children can get a close-up view of firefighting equipment and fire apparatus at the Arlington Heights Fire Department’s Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at Fire Station #1, 300 E. Sigwalt St.

Northwest suburban police blotter By Freida GadAn independent driver for Global Cargo Freight, 2262 Landmeier Road, Elk Grove Village, took the company’s 2009 Peterbilt tractor and Wabash trailer around 9 a.m. Sept. 23 to pick up a load. The load was picked up but never delivered. The driver was contacted but refused to reveal his location. Value was estimated at $32,000, according to police reports.

Northwest suburban police blotter
By Freida GadBurglars pried open a south side door between 4:50 and 9:21 p.m. Oct. 4 at a home on the 2500 block of North Haddow Avenue, Arlington Heights. The offenders stole cash from a first floor office, diamond jewelry out of the master bedroom and loose change out of another bedroom. Value was estimated at $25,700.

Cook County Clerk David Orr running for 7th term Daily Herald reportCook County Clerk David Orr announced Tuesday he will run for a seventh term as County Clerk in November 2014. “I am proud of my accomplishments as County Clerk,” Orr said. “It's been an exciting time to work in elections and there is plenty more work to do.”

No injuries in electrical fire at Lombard home
By Josh StockingerA garage fire Monday damaged a house on the 1000 block of South Edison Street in Lombard but no one was hurt, firefighters said. Assistant Fire Chief Jerry Howell said the blaze appeared to have started at an electrical outlet in a shed that was filled with storage items and attached to the home’s garage.

Parents of malnourished boys make court appearance
Associated PressA Denver couple accused of starving their four sons and keeping them in squalid conditions are due in court to face charges Tuesday morning. Wayne Sperling and Lorinda Bailey have each been charged with four counts of felony child abuse.

Shutdown takes its toll on White House operations
Associated PressNow in its second week, the partial government shutdown has taken its toll on the White House, where about 3 of 4 staffers have been furloughed, barred even from checking the BlackBerrys they usually clutch like worry beads. Of the 1,701 advisers, assistants, number-crunchers, butlers, chefs and landscapers who work at the White House, fewer than 450 are on duty. The rest fall under an...

Ark. reporter survives days lost in Texas park
Associated PressHusband-and-wife journalists Cathy Frye and Rick McFarland found themselves in the type of situtaion they usually cover on the job when they became lost in Texas’ remote Big Bend Ranch State Park. McFarland went to find help, leaving Frye behind. She waited for two more days, before rescuers found her on Sunday.

Record breaker Nyad attempts 48-hour swim in NYC
Associated PressThe 64-year-old woman who swam from Cuba to Florida is attempting to swim in a pool in midtown Manhattan for 48 straight hours to benefit victims of Superstorm Sandy. Wearing a pink swim cap, Diana Nyad dove into the 40-yard pool set up in Herald Square and began doing laps shortly before 9 a.m. Tuesday. Her aim is to raise money for people still struggling a year after Sandy.

Soldiers in fatal stabbing due in Washington court
Associated PressThere may have been some “trash talk” between a car full of black soldiers and three white soldiers on foot, but race was not the main issue in the weekend stabbing death of a soldier near a large Army base in Washington, police and prosecutors said.

West Chicago letting group try to save historic Wiant House By Robert Sanchez
West Chicago City Council members have signed off on a plan to save a 144-year-old house that's considered one of the most endangered historic places in Illinois. The council authorized an agreement with the West Chicago Community Center to restore the Joel Wiant House at 151 W. Washington St. “None of us wanted to see history destroyed,” Mayor Ruben Pineda said.

Naperville District 203 still debating drug testing for extracurricular activities By Marie Wilson
As heroin-prevention efforts ramp up in Naperville, one school district is continuing to consider mandatory random drug testing for students in extracurricular activities. Board members said any policy should not focus on punishing students found to be using drugs. “It's not a 'gotcha.' That's not what we're looking for,” board member Susan Crotty said. “We're looking to support...

Report: Batavia sees decrease in affordable housing By Susan Sarkauskas
A housing analysis shows Batavia had less affordable housing in 2011 than it did in 2000, particularly for households with lower incomes. “Really, housing issues aren't constrained by municipal borders,” said Brett Hanlon, a Kane County planner who is working on the report. Batavia was the first of the Fox Valley Cluster participants to receive an update. There will also be a cluster...

In Vegas, eye in the sky guards money, not guests
Associated PressHotel maid Brandi Patrick was chased down the hallway at the Flamingo casino last year by a nearly naked man. She said she had to lock herself in a cleaning closet and, as the man rattled the handle, fumble around in her pockets to find her cellphone so she could call security.

U.S. adults score below average on worldwide skills test
Associated PressIt’s long been known that America’s school kids haven’t measured well compared with international peers. Now, there’s a new twist: Adults don’t either. In math, reading and problem-solving using technology — all skills considered critical for global competitiveness and economic strength — American adults scored below the international average on a global test, according to results released...

Did Obama swap ‘black’ detention sites for ships?
Associated PressInstead of sending suspected terrorists to Guantanamo Bay or secret CIA “black” sites for interrogation, the Obama administration is questioning terrorists for as long as it takes aboard U.S. naval vessels. And it’s doing it in a way that preserves the government’s ability to ultimately prosecute the suspects in civilian courts.

Campaign contribution caps at issue at high court
Associated PressThe Supreme Court is tackling a challenge to limits on contributions by the biggest individual donors to political campaigns. The case being argued at the high court Tuesday is a test of the Roberts court’s readiness to take its most aggressive swipe at campaign finance laws since its Citizens United decision in 2010 took the lid off independent spending by corporations and labor unions.

Family: Man who set self on fire was mentally ill
Associated PressThe death of a New Jersey man who set himself on fire on the National Mall was the result of his long fight with mental illness, not a political statement, his family said. John Constantino, 64, of Mount Laurel, N.J., poured the contents of a canister of gasoline on himself in the center portion of the mall Friday afternoon, police said. He then set himself ablaze, with passing joggers taking off...

Taliban shooting survivor speaks in ‘I Am Malala’
Associated PressA year ago, Malala Yousafzai was a 15-year-old schoolgirl in northwest Pakistan, thinking about calculus and chemistry, Justin Bieber songs and “Twilight” movies. Today she’s the world-famous survivor of a Taliban assassination attempt, an activist for girls’ education — and a contender to win the Nobel Peace Prize later this week. Her memoir “I Am Malala” was Published around the world on...

Wheeling board split on third gambling cafeBy Deborah Donovan
The Wheeling village board seems poised, if divided, to approve a third site for a company whose cafes are based around video gambling, despite objections from neighbors. Laredo Hospitality wants to open a third Wheeling cafe called Stellas's Place at Lexington Commons, 1081 Lake Cook Road.

Families honor loss, love at Naperville's Walk to Remember By Christie Willhite
A picture, they say, is worth a thousand words. Yet for all that value, there's one obvious failing: A photograph can't show what's missing. A family portrait can't show the baby who should be in his mother's arms, the growing girl who should be holding Daddy's hand. It can't portray the grief parents carry in their hearts when the baby they were dreaming of dies before he or she has a chance to...

Carol Stream Park District moving closer to allowing alcohol salesBy Joshua Welge
The Carol Stream Park District appears to be just a couple steps away from allowing alcohol sales at the new Fountain View Recreation Center and during adult softball tournaments at McCaslin Park. “We know that there is reticence from some areas of the community about the park district serving liquor, but I think we have taken steps to ensure that youth will not be involved if there is...

Palatine street crossings to get safer with unexpected funding By Kimberly Pohl
Certain intersections in Palatine will become a bit safer for drivers and pedestrians thanks to some unforeseen federal and state money. In one case, the state allocated a $200,000 grant for the village to install pedestrian crosswalks and signals at the busy intersection of Rand and Hicks roads. “It’s a windfall for us. It’s like found money. We don’t get that from the...

Lake Zurich says no to downtown developer's $10 offer By Bob Susnjara
Lake Zurich's elected officials endorsed the village planner's recommendation to reject a developer's offer to pay $10 for public property downtown that cost taxpayers $3.6 million. Developer John Breugelmans wanted to erect a four-story building on roughly 2 acres overlooking the village's namesake lake. “For me, this comes down to how much risk is the village willing to take on,”...

Sports

Conant delivers inspired performance in honor of Scholten By John Leusch
Junior DeeDee Durr's ace not only ended Conant's 25-18, 26-24 victory over Schaumburg, it ended a very special match for Cougars girls volleyball coach Peggy Scholten. But it didn't end Scholten's night. She was headed to Fox & Hounds, where all the Mid-Suburban League coaches were paying tribute to Scholten's 37-year Hall of Fame coaching career. Before the match, Scholten was honored and presented with a plaque, stating that the annual Early Bird Invite will be renamed the Peggy Scholten Invite. Scholten is retiring from teaching (physical education) and coaching at the end of the school year. She was unaware of her big night until Tuesday. “Talk about humbling,” she said. “That was crazy.”

Tigers force Game 5 with A’s
Associated PressThe Detroit Tigers are heading back to California with the help of Max Scherzer and some fans in right field. Scherzer escaped a major jam during a relief outing to remember — one inning after two fans reached out to try to reel in Victor Martinez’s disputed home run — and the Tigers rallied past the Oakland Athletics 8-6 on Tuesday to force a decisive fifth game in their AL division series.

Hersey maintains East lead
Daily Herald reportHersey’s girls volleyball team remained in first place in the Mid-Suburban East with 25-19 21-25 25-19 victory on Tuesday night. The Huskies improved to 12-9 and 6-1 as Liz Fuerst (10 kills), Courtney Stedman (8), Gabri Olhava (4) and Caity Strozewski (2) led the attack. Hersey leads Buffalo Grove by one match with three to play in the East.

Barrington clinches MSL West
Daily Herald reportBarrington wrapped up the Mid-Suburban West title by earning a 0-0 draw with visiting Hersey in Mid-Suburban League boys soccer on Tuesday.

Cubs reward Ryan SweeneyBy Bruce Miles
The Cubs liked the play of outfielder Ryan Sweeney enough this season that they rewarded him with a new two-year deal worth a guaranteed $3.5 million. Sweeney provided the Cubs with a left-handed bat and an athletic presence in the outfield, particularly center field.

Benedictine’s Reyes wins award
By Kyle TheleFor the second consecutive week a member of the Benedictine men’s soccer team has been recognized as the Northern Athletic Collegiate Conference Student-Athlete of the Week.

Molloy, St. Charles East claim regional crown
By Jeff SmithBy his own admission, Luke Molloy didn’t put together the kind of senior golf season he had anticipated enjoying in his final year at St. Charles East. That is, until Tuesday. Entering the St. Charles East regional as the sixth and final player in the Saints’ lineup, Molloy picked the right time to play his best round of the season. On a day when nearly every player struggled with tricky pin placements on the greens of St. Andrews Golf Club in West Chicago, the easy-going senior carded a 5-over-par 76 that earned him medalist honors and drove East to the regional championship.

Addison Trail gets another shutout
By Mike KrizmanDefense has been the calling card for Addison Trail this season and Tuesday’s Senior Night match against Willowbrook saw that trend continue.

Benet prevails in ‘war of attrition’
By Kevin McGavinThe coaches’ sentiments at the Class 3A Hinsdale South boys golf regional echoed a familiar refrain after the scores came home Tuesday afternoon in Lockport.

Classic comeback keys Conant
By Mike GarofolaSecond-half goals from Tyler Block and Chase Hermanson got Conant’s boys soccer team up and running as the hosts dimmed the divisional title hopes of visiting Elk Grove after a 2-2 draw Tuesday night in the annual Crosstown Classic in Hoffman Estates. The Grens (9-4-2, 6-2-2, 20 points) now trail Mid-Suburban East division leaders Wheeling and Hersey by 2 points with one regular-season match remaining (Elk Grove plays Thursday, versus Rolling Meadows). Wheeling earned 3 points with its 6-1 victory over Hoffman Estates on Tuesday. Hersey drew 0-0 at Barrington, clinching the MSL West title for Broncos and assuring them of a spot in next week’s MSL Cup.

Burlington Central an easy winner
By Jerry FitzpatrickThe Burlington Central girls volleyball team stayed on point in pink Tuesday.Three days after they won the Hampshire Tournament title by defeating Big Northern East rival Richmond-Burton for the second time this season, the Rockets kept their focus in front of a sizable crowd on Volley for the Cure Night and dispatched Rockford Christian 25-12, 25-10 to win their seventh straight.

‘Big game’ when Blackhawks face Blues
By Tim SassoneNow with realignment, and Detroit moving to the Eastern Conference, the focus is back on the Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues as rivals. They meet on Wednesday night at Scottrade Center in an early-season Central Division showdown. “This is a big game," Hawks left wing Bryan Bickell said. “We feel they’re our new rival with Detroit leaving our division. It’s always a physical game."

Molloy, St. Charles East claim regional crown
By Jeff SmithBy his own admission, Luke Molloy didn’t put together the kind of senior golf season he had anticipated enjoying in his final year at St. Charles East. That is, until Tuesday. Entering the St. Charles East regional as the sixth and final player in the Saints’ lineup, Molloy picked the right time to play his best round of the season. On a day when nearly every player struggled with tricky pin placements on the greens of St. Andrews Golf Club in West Chicago, the easy-going senior carded a 5-over-par 76 that earned him medalist honors and drove East to the regional championship.

Crystal Lake South topples Cary-Grove
By Dave HessMost people are aware of Crystal Lake South’s dynamic trio of hitters — Carly Nolan, Nicole Slimko and Avalon Nero. One of the reasons Nolan, Slimko and Nero are so successful is the precise setting of junior Cassy Sivesand. With 25 assists, Sivesand helped propel the Gators to a hard-fought 29-27, 25-17 win over Cary-Grove in Fox Valley Conference Valley Division girls volleyball action in Cary Tuesday night.

Burlington Central rewrites record book
By John LemonDeb Twenhafel started the Burlington Central boys golf program 26 years ago, and for 24 of those seasons she has been the Rockets coach. “I took a two-year leave of absence and I just missed it,” Twenhafel said. “I decided to come back.” Twehafel got quite the reward for her dedication to her program Tuesday at Phillips Park Golf Course in Aurora at the Class 2A Aurora Central Catholic regional. She watched the Rockets break their school record with a 295 to win the first regional championship in school history.

St. Charles N. battles past Larkin
By Craig BrueskeEmotions were plentiful during Tuesday’s Senior Night festivities prior to St. Charles North’s girls volleyball match against Larkin. But the North Stars (17-5, 4-1) were able to keep their wits when it mattered most during a 25-21, 25-21 Upstate Eight Conference River Division triumph over the visiting Royals (14-12, 2-3).

Jacobs, Barrington’s Calbi champs at Palatine
By Steve NicholsThe good news for Barrington’s boys golf team after the Class 3A Palatine regional at Palatine Hills is that the future appears to be very bright. The bad news for everyone else in the Mid-Suburban League the next few years and those who participated in a very tough, but absolutely perfect regional from a weather standpoint on Tuesday is that Tom Calbi is only a freshman. Calbi, who already won two previous tournaments this season, birdied his first 2 holes and cruised to a 2-under round of 70, which edged-out Jacobs’ Billy Walker by a stroke for the top overall medalist spot. Ironically, both Calbi and Walker bogeyed No. 18, but Walker’s day wasn’t spoiled as he qualified for sectionals as well and helped lead Jacobs to a first place team finish with a score of 298, the Golden Eagles’ best round of the season. Barrington was the runner-up with a 301 and Huntley, one of the last teams to finish its round, tied Fremd at 308. The Red Raiders squeaked into their third sectional on a tiebreaker, with 3 players posting a score of 78.

Bears’ Marshall continues to sort things out
By Bob LeGereFrustrated Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall explained his recent dissatisfaction, but it wasn't necessary for coach Marc Trestman, who says the Pro Bowl wide receiver has been an exemplary teammate since Day One.

St. Viator, Prospect and Conant qualify for sectional
Daily Herald reportOnly the strong survived a rugged collection of boys golf teams in Class 3A regional action Tuesday at Mount Prospect Golf Course. Those advancing as teams to the next Monday’s Huntley sectional are team champion St. Viator (299), runner-up Deerfield (300) and third-place Prospect (304).

Rejman medalist as Westminster advances in 1A
Daily Herald reportWestminster Christian senior Connor Rejman shot a 76 Tuesday at Golf Club of Illinois in Algonquin to win medalist honors and lead the Warriors to a team qualifying spot out of their own Class 1A boys golf regional. Westminster shot a 338, taking third place after losing a scorecard tiebreaker to Aurora Christian. North Shore Country Day won the team title with a 336.

Stone’s PK lifts Dundee-Crown past Huntley
By Brian SchaumburgBen Stone, admittedly, was nervous stepping up to the penalty spot Tuesday. The Dundee-Crown senior calmed down and placed the penalty kick into the side netting with 22:07 remaining to give the Chargers a 2-1 victory over Fox Valley Conference Valley Division foe Huntley in Carpentersville. “Everyone behind was yelling, ‘He’s nervous. He’s nervous.’ I was nervous to tell you the truth,” Stone said.

Parola, Mundelein enjoy playoff payoff
By Rusty SilberExperience does pay. Derek Parola of Mundelein competed in a playoff earlier this year, and that effort helped prepare him him for a four-way playoff that lasted three holes as the top players battled it out for top medalist honors Tuesday.Mundelein captured its first boys golf regional in school history as the Mustangs won the Class 3A Zion-Benton meet at Shepard’s Crook in Zion. Mundelein took the top spot with 318, Lake Forest was 2 shots back 320 and Carmel also advanced to the sectional round with a 327. All three teams compete in Monday’s Huntley sectional, which will be held at Blackstone Golf Club in Marengo.

Irish enter unfamiliar ACC with familiar goals
Associated PressDespite losing the heart of the team with the graduation of hometown star Skylar Diggins, Notre Dame isn’t changing its goals for the season with its move to the Atlantic Coast Conference. “They’re the same: a national championship, ACC championship. They’re all the same as they have been in previous years,” guard Kayla McBride said during media day Tuesday.

Boilermakers eager to see what new QB can do
Associated PressPurdue quarterback Danny Etling spent his time during the bye week studying game tape, quietly calling out plays and trying to get in sync with his receivers before making his first career start Saturday against Nebraska (4-1, 1-0 Big Ten). Expectations are high for the 19-year-old, who graduated early from Terre Haute South so he could start college in January.

Have Cubs lost their spot as baseball’s darlings?
By Mike ImremEven if the Cubs ever win a World Series under the current regime, it's unlikely they will be baseball's darlings like they used to be and like the Pirates are right now. Romance isn't their thing.

Jets QB Sanchez has season-ending shoulder surgery
Associated PressNEW YORK — Mark Sanchez’s season is over. It might be the end of his time with the New York Jets, too.The maligned quarterback, who was once dubbed “The Sanchize” and drew early comparisons to Joe Namath, had season-ending surgery on his right shoulder Tuesday.The procedure, which repaired a torn labrum, was performed by Dr. James Andrews, the team announced. Sanchez, who hasn’t played since being injured in the third preseason game, said he was advised by Andrews and other doctors to have surgery after seven weeks of rehabilitation.“I’m very disappointed that I can’t be out there to help my team on the field,” Sanchez said in a statement, “but I’ll continue to help our team in whatever capacity I can.”Whether that is the case beyond this season remains to be seen.Sanchez, the team’s top draft pick out of Southern California in 2009, helped lead the Jets to consecutive trips to the AFC championship game in his first two seasons. While his overall numbers were far from eye-popping, his success with the team was unparalleled for a Jets quarterback in his first two seasons. With his good looks and big-time potential, many fans and media likened Sanchez to the next Broadway Joe.The Jets and then-general manager Mike Tannenbaum rewarded Sanchez with a hefty three-year contract extension following the 2011 season, a deal that included about $20 million in guarantees.But things really unraveled last season, culminating in him being benched for a game in favor of Greg McElroy. His 52 turnovers the last two years were the most in the NFL during that span, leading to concerns as to whether Sanchez could turn things around and live up to the expectations the Jets had when they made him the No. 5 overall pick.The Jets drafted Geno Smith in the second round in April to provide stiff competition for Sanchez for the first time in his career, and the rookie now appears to be the future of the team.Sanchez still has three years remaining on his contract, which included $8.25 million in guarantees this year, but it’s a strong possibility the Jets could make room under their salary cap next offseason by parting ways with him.“Throughout this process, our goal has been to provide Mark every opportunity to return this season,” general manager John Idzik said in a statement. “He and our medical staff have worked very diligently to that end and now it has been concluded that surgery is required. He will have our full support for a complete recovery.”Sanchez was placed on short-term injured reserve on Sept. 14, meaning he would not be able to play for eight weeks while he recovered. At that time, he thought he would still be able to return this season and possibly reclaim his starting job.He acknowledged then that surgery was a possibility at some point, but doctors were encouraged by his rehab to that point.“After over seven weeks of hard work and intense rehab, I’ve been advised by Dr. Andrews and other doctors that my shoulder injury clearly needs to be addressed surgically,” Sanchez said in the statement issued by the team. “The injury was recovering at an encouraging rate early on and I avoided surgery as long as I could.“But, ultimately, I was counseled by the doctors that they simply would have to repair my shoulder.”Sanchez was in a tight competition with Smith for the starting job this summer before he was injured against the Giants when he took a hard shot to his shoulder from Marvin Austin. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter with mostly backups in the game, and coach Rex Ryan has taken a lot of criticism for putting the quarterback in that position.Many speculated that, after a poor showing by Smith in that game, Sanchez had wrapped up the starting job after a solid preseason. Ryan disagreed with that notion, saying a decision on the starter had not been determined at that point.

Coach Smith: Falcons could lose Jones for season
Associated PressAtlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith sounded dismayed while discussing his team’s latest major injury.This time the bad news concerned Pro Bowl receiver Julio Jones, who could miss the rest of the season after injuring his foot in Monday’s 30-28 home loss to the New York Jets.

Tougher schedule exposes Illinois’ defensive problems
Associated PressHeading into its second bye week of the season, Illinois finds itself staring at three serious defensive problems and a Big Ten schedule that doesn’t get easier. One of them — poor tackling — Illinois (3-2, 0-1 Big Ten) emphasized during its first bye after the loss to Washington last month. The team’s inability to create turnovers or get pressure on opposing quarterbacks are related, and will get serious looks over the off week, too, coach Tim Beckman said Tuesday.

Coach says Michigan State defense can improve
Associated PressMark Dantonio knows Michigan State’s top-ranked defense can get better, with no better time to do that than against Indiana’s league-leading offense on Saturday. The Spartans (4-1, 1-0 Big Ten) are No. 1 in the nation in total defense, rushing defense, pass efficiency defense and opponents’ third-down conversions. The Hoosiers (3-2, 1-0) are tops in the conference in total offense, passing yards and yards per completion.

Penn St. hoping to push past loss at Indiana
Associated PressPenn State is in a funk, and so is coach Bill O’Brien. The second-year coach was in no mood Tuesday to break down the loss at Indiana last Saturday. Or talk about how lost scholarships impact the program and how sanctions have hurt the Nittany Lions. And don’t ask why the Nittany Lions haven’t developed a No. 2 receiver.

Giants RB Wilson out for Bears game
Associated PressStarting running back David Wilson will miss the New York Giants’ game against the Chicago Bears on Thursday night because of a neck injury. Coach Tom Coughlin said the second-year running back will be listed as week to week and the job of running the ball for the NFL’s worst rushing offense will fall to veteran Brandon Jacobs and Da’Rel Scott, who was re-signed Tuesday after being cut the previous week.

Rushing offense, defense still key in Big Ten
Associated PressWith a full week of league play in the books, a familiar trend has emerged in the Big Ten. Running the ball — and stopping others from doing likewise — are going to be huge for teams hoping to contend for the conference title this season. Five Big Ten teams rank in the top 25 nationally in rushing offense, the most of any conference in the country. The Big Ten is also first with six teams ranked in the top 20 in rushing defense

Gibson off to a good start for Bulls
By Mike McGrawTaj Gibson found an effective way to motivate himself this summer: By working out in Los Angeles with Bulls teammate Derrick Rose, who dedicated himself to recovering from knee surgery. Through two preseason games, Gibson is the Bulls' leading scorer and rebounder.

Gophers’ Kill still resting; president renews support
Associated PressMinnesota coach Jerry Kill has rested at home this week following a seizure that kept him from traveling to the game at Michigan. University President Eric Kaler reiterated the widespread support at the school for Kill and his ability to handle the high-profile, high-pressure job while dealing with epilepsy. Kaler said in a phone interview on Tuesday with The Associated Press that the university is not “looking at a Plan B.”

NFL owners pass ‘Hard Knocks’ measure to add teams
Associated PressWASHINGTON — The NFL is trying to spread “Hard Knocks” around.At their fall meetings Tuesday, owners approved a measure that allows the league to choose which team will be the focus of the documentary-style show if no club volunteers.Certain teams would be exempt from being forced to participate in the filming: — those with new coaches; — those that reached the playoffs in one of the previous two seasons; — those that appeared on “Hard Knocks” within the preceding 10 years.So far, only seven of the 32 NFL teams have been on the series, which airs on HBO: Dallas Cowboys (twice), Cincinnati Bengals (twice), New York Jets, Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Kansas City Chiefs.

Two stats explain why Bears lost to Saints
By Mike NorthWhen the Chicago defense does not force a turnover or loses the time of possession battle, it is unlikely the Bears will chalk up a victory. Both occurred on Sunday against the New Orleans Saints and Drew Brees, but Mike North sees the Bears winning big on Thursday. And the Northwestern-Ohio State ending turned into a "bad beat" for oddsmakers in Las Vegas.

Business

Telecoms firm Alcatel-Lucent to cut 10,000 jobs Associated PressTelecommunications equipment maker Alcatel-Lucent SA said Tuesday that it plans to cut 10,000 jobs worldwide over the next two years, the latest cost-cutting drive from the loss-making company. The company has local operations in Lisle and Naperville.The job cuts are part of a restructuring plan to make the French-American company more competitive.

Spain, Italy lack jobs skills needed for recovery Associated PressA new study has found that adults in Spain and Italy are among the least equipped in the developed world to emerge from the economic crisis that has gripped Europe and beyond. Their northern European and Asian counterparts, meanwhile, have educated and inventive workforces in position to adapt and even thrive for generations.

Obama, Boehner trade barbs, hints of compromise Associated PressPresident Barack Obama and House Speaker John Boehner offered hints of possible compromise but also traded heated rhetoric Tuesday, a frustratingly inconclusive combination that left the eight-day partial government shutdown firmly in place and the threat of an unprecedented national default drawing closer.

Insurers, others say 'Obamacare' glitches fixable Associated PressThe federal government's biggest foray into online commerce has left millions of tech-savvy Americans thoroughly bewildered. But the insurance industry and others experienced with rolling out new programs say there's still enough time to fix the glitches with President Barack Obama's health care law before uninsured people start getting coverage on Jan. 1.

EU Parliament bans menthol, targets e-cigarettes Associated PressEuropean lawmakers have approved sweeping new regulations to curb smoking, including limits on electronic cigarettes, bigger warnings on cigarette packs and a ban on menthol. The European Parliament vote in Strasbourg on Tuesday came after months of bitter debate.

Americans cut back on credit cards for 3rd month Associated PressAmericans cut back on using their credit cards in August for a third straight month, a sign that consumers remain cautious about spending. Consumers increased their borrowing $13.6 billion in August to a seasonally adjusted $3.04 trillion, the Federal Reserve said Monday. That's a record and it followed a gain of $10.4 billion in July.

Frost signals end of growing season in Illinois Associated PressIt won't be long before Illinois residents wake up to something that signals the end of the growing season for everyone from farmers to landscapers to gardeners: frost. Illinois state climatologist Jim Angel says the first frost of the season in northern Illinois will likely arrive by Thursday.

Quinn opens water-quality conference Associated PressThousands of drinking-water professionals from around the world are opening the Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference in Chicago. Gov. Pat Quinn said Monday he wants to protect the environment by modernizing Illinois' water infrastructure. He declared October as “Water's Worth It” Month.

ADM cites past tax breaks for Sears Associated PressArcher Daniels Midland Company said Tuesday that perks Illinois gave to Hoffman Estates-based Sears Holdings Corp. and other companies set a precedent that ADM would like to see followed as it tries to get tax breaks.

United Airlines posts flat Sept passenger revenue Associated PressChicago-based United Airlines said a key measure of passenger revenue was flat in September as it faced new competition in China and made an accounting adjustment. However, even with those factors, United’s performance in September was worse than that of competitors.

Three Chicago chefs to be inducted into hall of fame Three Chicago restaurateurs and chefs will be inducted into the Chicago Culinary Museum's Chefs Hall of Fame. Richard Melman, Paul Kahan and Alain Roby will be inducted during a ceremony on Oct. 17. Mayor Rahm Emanuel has proclaimed this Thursday as Richard Melman Day, with similar proclamations for Kahan on Oct. 17 and Roby on Oct. 24.

Obama to nominate Yellen as Bernanke replacement
Associated PressPresident Barack Obama will nominate Federal Reserve vice chair Janet Yellen to succeed Ben Bernanke as chairman of the nation’s central bank, the White House said Tuesday. Yellen would be the first woman to head the powerful Fed, taking over at a pivotal time for the economy and the banking industry.

Stocks fall as investors wait on Washington
Associated PressNEW YORK — The stock market’s slow bleed got a little worse Tuesday. The decline is the result of squabbling in Washington over raising the nation’s debt limit and a government shutdown that has dragged on for more than a week. Moderate losses for the stock market in the first days of the shutdown have accelerated this week as the U.S. has moved closer to an Oct. 17 deadline for lifting the government’s borrowing authority. Stocks opened flat, moved steadily lower and slumped in the final minutes of trading Tuesday. The loss added to a three-week decline that has knocked the Standard & Poor’s 500 index down 4 percent since hitting a record high on Sept. 18.Swings in the market will likely increase the closer the U.S. gets to the debt deadline without a resolution, said Randy Frederick, Managing Director of Active Trading and Derivatives at the Schwab Center for Financial Research.“Virtually everyone expects that there will some sort of a resolution,” Frederick said. “But I wouldn’t be surprised if it only came right before the last minute.”The S&P 500 index dropped 20.67 points, or 1.2 percent, to 1,655.45. It was the biggest one-day drop for the index since Aug. 20. The declines were led by phone companies. House Republicans have insisted that a temporary funding bill contain concessions on President Barack Obama’s health care law. The president wants a bill to simply reopen the government, without strings attached. Obama said he had told House Speaker John Boehner he’s willing to negotiate with Republicans on their priorities, but not under the threat of “economic chaos.” Speaking at a press briefing in Washington, the president warned that the U.S. risked a “very deep recession” if the debt ceiling wasn’t raised.The Dow Jones industrial average fell 159.71 points, or 1.1 percent, to 14,776.53. The Nasdaq composite dropped 75.54 points, or 2 percent, to 3,694.83.Nervous investors also dumped short-term government debt as they worried that the standoff in Washington could jeopardize the nation’s ability to pay its bills, including interest on its debt, as early as next week if Congress doesn’t raise the borrowing limit. The yield on Treasury bills maturing in one month soared to 0.28 percent, hitting its highest level since the 2008 financial crisis. The yield was 0.15 percent on Monday and close to zero at the beginning of October. The yield, which rises as the price of the notes fall, has surged as managers of money-market funds become more wary of holding short-term government debt that matures shortly after the debt deadline. There were other signs of increasing investor nervousness.The VIX index, which rises when investors are getting more concerned about stock fluctuations, climbed to its highest level of the year. “Unfortunately, we’re just held hostage by what’s going on in Washington,” said Dan Veru, Chief Investment Officer of Palisade Capital Management. U.S. companies will start reporting earnings for the third quarter in earnest this week, giving investors something else to think about other than Washington. Aluminum producer Alcoa, which was recently removed from the Dow Jones industrial average, said Tuesday that it had swung to a profit in the third quarter despite lower aluminum prices, as it was helped by demand from auto makers and by cost-cutting moves.JPMorgan and Wells Fargo are also among the companies releasing earnings this week. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note was little changed at 2.63 percent. The yield on the longer-term note has fallen in the past month, suggesting that investors see any potential default as a short-term phenomenon and are predicting that economic growth will remain subdued in the longer term.

Job fair for seniors, disabled set for Oct. 23
Daily Herald reportSchaumburg and Palatine townships will host a free job fair for jobseekers ages 50 and older and people with disabilities at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23 at Schaumburg Township, 1 Illinois Blvd. in Hoffman Estates. Job seekers will have the chance to interact with several potential employers.

Q&A: Why breaking federal debt limit sparks fear
Associated PressHere’s the scariest thing about the looming deadline to raise the U.S. government’s borrowing limit: No one knows precisely what will happen if the limit is breached. It’s never happened before. The possible consequences are dizzyingly complex. But they’re all bad. Here are questions and answers about the government’s borrowing limit.

Batavia restricts tattooing, piercing in downtown By Susan Sarkauskas
Batavia is limiting the number of tattoo parlors in its downtown to two, and has enacted a law regulating how they and other “body art” establishments can operate. The city council passed both measures Monday night.

Yahoo’s email becomes more like Gmail in redesign
Associated PressYahoo’s free email service is becoming a bit more like Google’s Gmail as part of its second makeover in less than a year. The similarities to Gmail probably aren’t coincidental. Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer helped design some of Gmail’s features while she was a top executive at Google Inc.

Google unveils new HP laptop for $279
Google is introducing a new, cheap laptop based on its Chrome operating system.Hewlett Packard Co. is making the new HP Chromebook 11. It starts selling Tuesday for $279.

Daily Herald’s commitment: Watching out for the little guy
By Diane Dungey, Deputy Managing Editor/NewsFrom its early days, the Daily Herald has kept the good of suburban communities at the heart of its mission. The pages of our history literally are filled with examples where we’ve investigated wrongdoing, spoken out for needed change or rallied readers to help those in distress.

Why local news reporting matters at the Daily Herald
By Renee Trappe, Assistant Managing Editor/Local NewsIn an era where government handouts pass as news, the need for local news reporting is greater than ever today, says Daily Herald local news editor Renee Trappe.

Life & Entertainment

Give your marriage another chance
By Carolyn HaxIs there an age at which divorce causes more or less damage to children? This woman is considering staying in her unhappy marriage until her youngest child goes to college, but that won't be for 10 years. She doesn't think she can hang in there that long. Will the kids be able to handle it better if she at least waits until they’re in high school?

Best bets: Feel free with Lynyrd Skynyrd at Festival Park By Scott MorganThe current incarnation of the band Lynyrd Skynyrd headlines a rock concert that also features John Kay & Steppenwolf Sunday at Festival Park next to the Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin. Hear some of the best exponents of modern day swing when Big Bad Voodoo Daddy performs Saturday at the Raue Center in Crystal Lake. Plus, Tony Award winner Audra McDonald performs selections from her latest album, “Go Back Home,” Saturday at Symphony Center in Chicago.

Drury Lane to kick off new season with ‘Les Mis’ By Scott C. Morgan
Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace has announced its 2014 season which includes "Les Miserables," "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," "The Game's Afoot," "Camelot" and "West Side Story."

Betty White to join Madame Tussauds museum in wax
Associated PressActress and animal lover Betty White is joining the collection in wax at the Madame Tussauds museum in Washington. The museum says a new wax figure of the 91-year-old White will be unveiled Wednesday.

Winnetka native making his directorial debutBy Jamie Sotonoff and Dann GireAfter 20 years working in the New York theater scene — along with David Mamet and Arthur Miller — Winnekta native Jason Chaet has branched out into the movies. His directorial debut, the bittersweet story of “Putzel,” will have its local premiere at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Wilmette Theatre in Wilmette. An encore showing will be presented at 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13.

Joe Nichols changes direction, not quality Associated PressAfter 11 years as one of the most effective traditional country singers of his generation, Joe Nichols crosses over to rocking contemporary songs, most of them about seducing young women and sentimentalizing the rural lifestyle, on "Crickets." Nichols’ beefy baritone gives more muscle to these up-tempo celebrations than most of the younger male artists currently topping the charts.

50 Cent says ‘Dream School’ is fresh reality show
By Mesfin Fekadu, Associated Press50 Cent said he’s excited to be part of the new Sundance series “Dream School” because the reality show focuses on uplifting people. “Dream School,” which debuted at 9 p.m. Monday, follows a group of high school dropouts who are trying to graduate. 50 Cent appears in the series with filmmaker Oliver Stone and actor David Arquette. “The actual reality programs that exist right now ... kind of focus on the train wreck, and this show is more about providing opportunity,” the 38-year-old rapper said in an interview last week.

It’s time to protect tender plants By Tim Johnson, Chicago Botanic GardenFrost is just around the corner. The average first frost date at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe is Oct. 15, though it is often later in the city and sometimes earlier farther inland. When nighttime temperatures begin dropping below 40 degrees, it is time to bring in any tropical plants that you are keeping outside.

From the Food Editor: Suburban treat makers sweet on chocolate
By Deborah PankeyA handful of suburban chocolatiers and treat shops will be showing off their confections at the Chicago Fine Chocolate and Dessert Show Oct. 18-20 at Navy Pier, and thankfully, this show is open to the public. The Chocolate Pretzel Pizza from Sweet Secrets Artisan Chocolate in Wheaton, for example, is a finalist for Best New Product.

Kenny Rogers takes chances on new album Associated PressKenny Rogers enters his 75th year with a new album, “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” that blends the familiar with the challenging, seeking new hits and pursuing new ideas even as he enters the Country Music Hall of Fame this fall. His age occasionally shows in the raggedness at the edges of his vocal tone. But Rogers always made the huskiness of his voice work for him.

Pixies look for revival in new songs, tour Associated PressAs a young musician, Pixies frontman Charles Thompson was determined to make it past the velvet rope at the mythical club that is rock stardom. “It inspired us even from the time before we were rock musicians,” said Thompson, who performs under the name Black Francis. The Pixies, who disbanded in 1993 and reunited in 2004, are back out on tour again and will be stopping at the Riviera in Chicago on Feb. 9. Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 11.

Author traces harrowing U.S. nuclear near-misses Associated PressIn 1961, a B-52 went into an uncontrolled spin above North Carolina, sending a pair of hydrogen bombs plunging toward the ground. The firing sequence initiated in one bomb, as one safety mechanism after another failed. The only thing that prevented the 4-megaton thermonuclear bomb from exploding was one final mechanism that remained in the safe position. The gripping account is one of many harrowing tales recounted by Eric Schlosser in “Command and Control.”

93-year-old Glacier ranger park service’s oldest
By Matt Volz, Associated PressWith a can of bear spray on his hip and hearing aids in both ears, Lyle Ruterbories whistles and hums as he tends to this patch of wilderness along the Canadian border. For 20 years, he has been the ambassador, manager, accountant, anthropologist, botanist, historian, traffic cop, landscaper, handyman and rules enforcer of Kintla Lake. He still wields a chain saw to clear fallen trees from the road in Glacier National Park. But he doesn’t overdo it. He is, after all, 93 years old.

Cheerleading’s school of hard knocksBy Lenny Bernstein, The Washington PostQuick, name the sport that causes the largest number of catastrophic injuries among girls. No, it’s not soccer, lacrosse, gymnastics, basketball or even flag football. It’s cheerleading, also known as “competitive cheer” or “acrobatics and tumbling.” Actually, my initial question was a bit of a trick, because some states don’t recognize cheerleading as a sport, and neither does the NCAA, a major problem unto itself, some believe.

Wisdom from kids about school lunches
A Barrington Hills letter to the editor: My own independent citizen panel of three grandchildren weighed in on school lunches this weekend. They are assorted ages and in different schools in the suburbs. When asked, they said they taste “like ground cardboard mixed with water,”

No clergy forced to perform civil unions
A Rolling Meadows letter to the editor: Anna Scott of Grayslake, I’d like to alleviate your fears about civil unions, which have been legal in Illinois since 2011. No religious institutions have been prosecuted, nor has any clergy member been arrested. Civil unions are legal contracts recognized by the state.

Unwilling to lift their voting finger
Unwilling to lift their voting fingerOur area Republican congressmen all rushed to honor the Worl War II vets from the Chicago “Honor Flight” recently. These veterans put their lives on the line to defend Uncle Sam from its enemies.The congressmen, on the other hand, are unwilling lift a finger, their voting finger, to simply keep Uncle Sam going.Michael GlassGlen Ellyn

What is GOP so afraid of?
What is GOP so afraid of?If the Republicans, Tea Party in particular, think the Affordable Care Act will fail, they should just let it take effect. If they are right and people don’t like it, they would be a shoe-in to win control of the Senate, expand their seats in the House and take the presidency in a landslide in 2016.Is it possible that Tea Party doesn’t want it because they are afraid that people will like it? If people like it, then the GOP will lose seats in the Congress, probably lose the presidency in 2016, and — heaven forbid — President Obama will go down as one of the all time great presidents.What are they so afraid of?Anne KrickWheaton

Clarifying list of
‘approved’ weapons
A Geneva letter to the editor: All our weapons in the U.S. are civilized. It’s OK to use the ones on “our” list. Destroy as you will, if it’s on the list, it is OK. The list justifies your attack on people — old ones, young ones, women, children, men, bad, good, dreamers.

Try reading JFK’s book, Mr. Boehner
A Pingree Grove letter to the editor: In watching the current events in Washington that led to the government’s shut down, I mused on John Kennedy’s book, “Profiles in Courage.” He tells of eight senators who stood their ground against their parties to do what they thought was best for their country.